Building trust
OPINION: The war of words between Southland farmers and Environment Southland over winter grazing inspections reflects a deep lack of trust among farmers for the regional council.
The council has created two new funds, available to all landowners within the Southland region, to provide the community with an opportunity to undertake projects with up to 50% of the costs covered by council.
This will add up to $140,000 in the first year.
The third are of funding will grant Thriving Southland $235,000 for wetland mitigations and other water quality improvement projects. The fund will run until June 2026.
Environment Southland community and engagement general manager Sam Rossiter-Stead says that by providing this financial assistance, the council hopes to encourage community-driven efforts to protect and restore the natural environment.
“The funds are a great opportunity for landowners to get help to cover the costs of planned projects,” he says.
“If you have identified an environmental improvement for your property but have been put off by the associated costs, this grant could provide the necessary financial support to help you implement these changes,” he adds.
Rossiter-Stead says the funds give Environment Southland the ability to partner with the community so more projects can be achieved to protect and restore the natural environment in the region.
The funding is divided into two categories: one for land management and another for native planting.
To be eligible, projects must be discussed with an Environment Southland land sustainability officer before submitting an application.
Completed applications must be received by close of business on 14 February, 2025.
All projects must be completed within the financial year, with invoices submitted by 15 June, 2025.
For more information or to apply, contact Environment Southland on 0880 76 88 45.
